
Et pourquoi elle divise ?
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A proposed law, known as the Yadam law, aims to combat antisemitism in France, particularly following the Hamas attack in October 2023. Carried by Deputy Caroline Yadam, who represents French citizens in Israel and Palestine, the text notes a significant increase in antisemitic acts, with 1676 incidents reported this year, a 280% rise compared to 2022.
The law consists of four articles. Article 1 seeks to penalize provocations, even implicit ones, to terrorist attacks and the apology of such acts. Article 2, the most contentious, aims to sanction public claims that advocate for the destruction of a people. Article 3 addresses the struggle against racism and assistance to victims of discrimination, while Article 4 targets the contestation of crimes against humanity, such as the Shoah.
The text is scheduled for examination by the National Assembly on July 16th and 17th, 2026. However, it has already generated considerable debate, largely due to accusations from detractors that it conflates antisemitism with anti-Zionism. Critics fear it could potentially restrict criticism of Zionism and the expansion of the state of Israel, thus posing a threat to freedom of expression and potentially silencing support for the Palestinian cause.
A petition opposing the Yadam law, launched on July 18th, 2026, by Alexandre Ballas, has garnered 600,000 signatures, marking it as the second petition on the National Assembly's website to exceed half a million signatures. This level of public support could trigger a parliamentary debate, although the President's conference has the option to disregard it.
The law initially had broad support, co-signed by over a hundred elected members. However, the strong public mobilization has weakened its position. The Socialist Party (PS), initially abstaining, has now stated it will vote against the law, citing concerns about its legal implications and its potential to create an "essentialization" between French Jews and the State of Israel. Even some within the presidential minority, such as the Modem group, have expressed reservations, calling for a temporary withdrawal due to the geopolitical situation. The far-right RN has not publicly declared its stance, though some of its members voted for the text in committee. France Insoumise has hailed the petition's success as a victory and demands the withdrawal of the bill.
Deputy Caroline Yadam maintains that the petition is based on factual inaccuracies and that the debated text will incorporate recommendations from the State Council.